Overview
Candidates in one of these classifications, where a Master’s Degree is required to meet the minimum qualifications, shall receive an educational pay differential equivalent to 2% of their monthly base pay. Those where a Doctoral Degree is required to meet the minimum qualifications, shall receive an educational pay differential equivalent to 3% of their monthly base pay. Individuals with both a Master’s and Doctoral Degree will be given the best benefit in relation to salary shall only be eligible for only one amount.
This position supports the California Department of Public Health’s (CDPH) mission and strategic plan by performing quality, timely, highly complex public health laboratory testing for the diagnosis and epidemiologic investigation of microbial diseases of public health importance in the State of California.
The RS III focuses on whole genome sequencing (WGS) of microbial isolates including expansion, testing, and validation of bioinformatics pipelines for analyzing data from various sequencing platforms. Additionally, the RS III assists with development of new workflows for sequencing and data reporting. Advanced-level experience with next-generation sequencing technologies, bioinformatics workflows, and data analysis software is highly preferred.
The RS III conducts routine laboratory testing, complies with safety and quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) practices, provides and documents technical training and competency assessments (as assigned). The RS III may be delegated Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) Technical and/or General Supervisory responsibilities by the CLIA laboratory director if qualifications are met. The RS III prepares, reviews, and updates laboratory standard operating procedures (SOPs) in addition to designing, conducting, and overseeing validation and verification studies for new procedures to identify and/or characterize microbial pathogens. The RS III works with CDPH colleagues to make improvements to the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) as applicable to the Unit.
The RS III plans, designs, and carries out scientific research studies related genomic identification and characterization of infectious pathogens; makes independent decisions in their specific scientific field of expertise; may serve as scientific advisor or consultant to lower-level scientists conducting scientific studies and to internal and external stakeholders and clients. The RS III assists with grant writing and communicates with internal and external partners, presents scientific research or investigations to public health experts and the community, publishes research in scientific journals, and performs other related work. The RS III participates in providing workshops or trainings on WGS to CDPH and non-CDPH microbiologists and research scientists.
Minimum Requirements
You will find the Minimum Requirements in the Class Specification.
RESEARCH SCIENTIST III (MICROBIOLOGICAL SCIENCES)
Desirable Qualifications
In addition to evaluating each candidate’s relative ability, as demonstrated by quality and breadth of experience, the following factors will provide the basis for competitively evaluating each candidate:
The preferred candidate will have advanced-level experience and expertise in next generation sequencing laboratory methods and analysis (including phylogenetics / genomic epidemiology), development and/or validation of bioinformatics pipelines, and data analysis software. California Public Health Microbiologist certification and experience in a regulated clinical laboratory environment is desirable.
How To Apply
Complete Application Packages (including your Examination/Employment Application (STD 678) and applicable or required documents) must be submitted to apply for this Job Posting. Application Packages may be submitted electronically through your CalCareer Account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov. When submitting your application in hard copy, a completed copy of the Application Package listing must be included
https://calcareers.ca.gov/CalHrPublic/Jobs/JobPosting.aspx?JobControlId=464347
At the California Department of Public Health (CDPH), equity, diversity, and inclusion are at the core of our mission to advance the health and well-being of California’s diverse people and communities. We are genuinely and strongly committed to cultivating and preserving a culture of inclusion and connectedness where we can grow and learn together with a diverse team of employees. In recruiting for team members, we welcome the unique contributions that you can bring to us and the work we do.
About The California Department of Public Health
The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) works to protect the public's health in the Golden State and helps shape positive health outcomes for individuals, families and communities. The Department's programs and services, implemented in collaboration with local health departments and state, federal and private partners, touch the lives of every Californian and visitor to the state 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Our Shared Vision
CDPH public health professionals, researchers, scientists, doctors, nurses, and other staff members have a shared vision to protect and improve the health of all Californians. We are dedicated to public service and passionate about our work and the people and communities we serve and protect.
